John James Tatooles

So sad to hear the news about John.

We roomed together in Woods Creek at W&L Law School, he, Al Tibbets, Gordon Robertson and I would take turns making dinner, and he and I would joke about having identical suburban childhoods, in different states!

RIP Toots, may your memory be a blessing.

John - I knew you briefly at DePauw University and as a brother at Lambda Chi Alpha. You always had a smile on your face and a friendly comment on your lips. It was a blessing to have you as my brother.

John was a wonderful, full-loving soul with a big heart. Whenever we would talk or reunite in person in Washington, DC, Chicago or Palm Beach, it was as if we had just been together the day before. John's care and friendship over the years never waivered since our days at W&L Law School. His memory will continue to be a light. Jamie Canup, Richmond, Virginia.

Dearest Victor,

Jack and I are so sorry for your loss. There are very few words that can be of help in such impossible circumstances, but I have found that it is good to know that people are thinking about you. Jack and I are holding you in our hearts and thoughts.

Our most sincere and profound condolences.

Much love,

Michael Halberstam and Jack Segal

greatest brother of all time
xoxoxo, PEB

greatest brother of all time xoxoxo, PEB

Our deepest condolences. You are in our prayers.
Ben and Laetitia Han

Dearest Victor, my deepest condolences to you and to John´s family. What a shining star he was in everyone´s life.
May your loving memories bring you peace and comfort in the day´s ahead.
Sincerely, Ninette Ricca

I had not seen John since our Lambda Chi days, but I will always remember his energetic spirit.
Rest in peace, John.

Prayer for all of John´s loved ones...
Rick Coleman

Victor,

I never had the pleasure of meeting you, but my life and John's crossed paths over the years in meaningful ways. John and I were classmates at DePauw, and we shared the same pledge class at Lambda Chi Alpha. While we didn´t often travel in the same circles, I always held immense respect for him and knew he would leave his mark on the world.

Our careers took similar paths-we both became successful lawyers in Chicago and even practiced at the same firm, Gardner, Carton & Douglas, though at different times. In 2024, when one of our fraternity brothers passed away, I reached out to John to share the news. He was deeply appreciative, and we remained in touch via email after that.

For the past several years, we have been working to recolonize the Lambda Chi Alpha house at DePauw, which closed in 2006. John was instrumental in navigating the legal complexities of the project, and he continued to assist us even when he was very ill-a testament to his dedication and character.

I was heartbroken to learn of his passing today. He was a truly remarkable man, and the world feels a little less bright without him. In our shared Episcopal faith, I take comfort in knowing that heaven has gained another angel.

To honor John, we will be holding a special memorial at our upcoming Alumni Reunion weekend on June 7. As I wrote when another fraternity brother passed too soon, one of my sports heroes, Walter Payton, once said, "Tomorrow is promised to no one." These past few years have reinforced just how precious the bonds of friendship and brotherhood are as we age. I am grateful that I had the opportunity to reconnect with John, and I will cherish that always.

Rest in peace, John.

Lea and family, wishing you peace to bring you comfort, courage to face the days ahead, and loving memories to forever hold in your heart. Cherie and Tim Palma

Lea always spoke so lovingly of her brother John and you could tell how cherished he was by his family and friends. My condolences to all who feel the weight of his absence.

Remembering John for his warm and generous hospitality as well as his commitment to our beautiful community. We offer our heartfelt condolences to Victor and family.

We will miss him dearly. Will always treasure the memories of our backgammon matches and tournaments, where the games were competitive but always full of laughter. Rest easy, my friend.

I will miss John at future backgammon matches and I will always remember his fun competitive personality and his very likable persona

I am so so sorry that John is no longer with us. He was such a funny, charismatic, charming and generous guy. It is hard to imagine the world without him. He leaves a huge void that will never be filled and I will miss him forever. RIP dear old friend.

Victor,
Although John and I are relatively new friends to your circle, our love for both of you feels ages old. I told John in the last weeks that I wish we had decades more together to enjoy good meals, and good jokes. I also told him that we would wrap our arms around you as we know that a piece of you died with him.
It was such a pleasure to know John

Victor - I was so sorry to hear about John´s passing. His friendship was a huge part of my 20´s and - despite the passage of time - I never fail to smile when I think about him, and your wonderful bond.

Victor
My heart goes out to you. John was one of the most loving, smart, wonderful people I have ever known. I haven´t seen either of you in many years even though I´m living just up the road. What a loss. Sending you love and I will be there Monday.

I made a contribution to hospice as you requested but didn´t see how to attach his name.

So sorry for your loss. John will be remembered fondly and often.

Such a wonderful person and dear friend. My condolences to you, Victor and to John´s family. I am blessed to have known him and we all at Carriage House send our thoughts and prayers.

Victor, I know we have lost touch over the years but I have always had the fondest of memories of the Two of you. I'm deeply saddened for your loss.my sincere condolences to you and your family.
Angie Goldberg

John was a force of nature. Truly one of a kind, amazing man.
Victor,I am devastated for you, but what a love story you shared.I hope the memories bring you comfort...

My deepest condolences on the passing of your beloved son, John.
May his memory be eternal.

Al&Tomi Coulolias

What a life well lived! It´s not the years that count, but how we live each gifted day. John certainly left a big footprint on this earth, and he will be remembered for his kind and generous spirit. My condolences to Victor and to all of John´s and Victor´s family members.

Victor I am so sorry to see this. John was a great human and attorney. He always gave wise counsel both personally and professionally. I am sorry for your loss.

We lost a fun neighbor.